Category: Property Management Resources

If you need your commercial roof replaced or repaired, you’ll begin the process by selecting a commercial roofing company. Understanding what to look for when comparing each estimate will allow you to make an informed decision that will significantly impact the cost, quality, and longevity of your roof.

With over 70 years of experience as a reputable commercial roofing company, we understand the challenges building owners and managers face when navigating the process of obtaining and comparing commercial roofing estimates. In this article, we hope to unpack the process, offering insights and advice to help you make a choice that aligns with your building’s needs and your financial considerations.

What An Estimate Includes

It’s important to understand that a commercial roofing estimate is more than just a price quote. In addition to the estimated cost, it’s a detailed proposal that outlines the scope of work, materials to be used, timeline, and warranty information. When you request an estimate, you’re essentially asking for a roadmap of the project from start to finish.

When comparing estimates, it’s essential to dive into the details. Here are some key factors to consider:

Scope of Work

The biggest differentiator in a commercial roofing quote is the scope of work. At Maxwell Roofing, our goal is always to develop the project with the client so the scope of work aligns with your plans for your facility. Our process doesn’t always result in the cheapest bid, but we always provide the best solution to meet a client’s needs.

When you’re comparing the differences in pricing between the estimates, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do the various estimates include the same proposed scope of work?
• Is the work to be performed clearly detailed?
• What materials will be utilized?

Ensure that each estimate clearly defines all work that will be done. This could include the removal of the old roof, preparation, installation, and cleanup. A detailed scope of work helps prevent unexpected costs and misunderstandings.

Think Long-Term

To assess the true value of a roofing proposal, consider the average cost of maintenance and repairs for the life of the roof. Certain types of roofs may be inexpensive up front, but they will cost more to maintain and may not last as long. The same is true with investing in a quality roofing contractor rather than a budget contractor. It may cost more upfront to hire a reputable roofer, but your roof will last longer, saving you more money in the long run.

Materials

The type and quality of materials used in a project can vary, and not all of these materials are created equal. Certain roofing materials may be required to meet building codes. Before you sign a contract, understand the pros and cons of each material option and how it aligns with your building’s needs and your budget.

Insurance and Licensing

Appropriate business elements are just as important as the scope of work and performance. For example, is the roofing contractor licensed to operate in your specific state and county? Do they have proper insurance coverage? Will they meet the requirements of your current building codes and permits?

Many roofing companies include proof of insurance, business licenses, liability information, and payment terms with the proposal. If the roofing company does not include that, be sure to ask for these documents before hiring them.

Ask The Right Questions

Do your due diligence to make sure the companies you’re considering for a job are experienced and reputable. Good roofing companies keep track of their best work and retain references from past customers. Remember that you can always ask for referrals or previous customer testimonials. You can also request bank, vendor, or manufacturer certification letters to confirm the company’s legitimacy.

Some additional important questions include:

• How are unforeseen issues handled during the project?
• How do you ensure the project stays on schedule and within budget?
• What safety measures do you implement during the project?

Without knowledge of the roofing industry, it can be difficult to know if you’re being quoted a fair price on a reasonable deadline. That’s why we’ve created a guide to give you an inside look at what goes into building a quote so you can feel even more confident during and after the decision-making process.

At Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc., we’re a trusted partner committed to working alongside every client to provide the best solution for their needs. Contact Maxwell to speak with our team and start building your quote.

As a commercial property manager or building owner, one of the most important concerns you have is the longevity of your roof. After all, it’s your first line of defense against the elements, and it ensures the comfort and safety of your occupants. But how long can you expect your roof to last?

With nearly 70 years of experience in commercial roofing in Tennessee and Alabama, our team at Maxwell Roofing understands the factors that impact roof lifespan. We’ve also witnessed the evolution of our industry as materials become more durable, maintenance practices shift, and building owners increasingly prioritize roof longevity. 

After partnering with hundreds of building owners and property managers over the years, one question consistently tops our list of inquiries: “How long is my commercial roof expected to last?” In this blog, we hope to answer some of the most common questions related to roof longevity to help you make informed decisions about your property.

1. What is the expected lifespan of a commercial roof system?

The good news is that with proper care and maintenance, a well-constructed roof system can last 20 years or more. However, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The lifespan can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:

• Interior conditions. Is your building subject to high humidity, temperature fluctuations, or chemical exposure? These factors can put stress on your roof and shorten its lifespan.
• Building design. The slope of your roof, the presence of roofing penetrations like skylights or vents, and the overall structural integrity all play a role in how long your roof will last.
• Maintenance best practices. Regular inspections, prompt repairs, and proper cleaning are essential for extending the life of your roof. Neglecting these crucial steps can lead to rapid deterioration and costly repairs.

2. What factors can potentially shorten the lifespan of the roofing system?

The biggest threat to your roof’s longevity is neglect. Just like a car, your roof needs routine attention. Annual inspections are essential, especially after major weather events, to catch potential problems before they escalate. But neglect isn’t the only culprit. Here are other factors to watch out for:

• Abuse. If your roof is used for purposes it wasn’t designed for (e.g., excessive foot traffic, storage), it can suffer premature damage.
• Improper installation or maintenance. Inexperienced contractors or workers unfamiliar with your specific roof type can cause problems during installation or repairs.
• Incompatible materials. Using the wrong materials for penetrations or repairs can lead to chemical reactions and compromise the integrity of your roof.
• Changes in building use. If you change the interior function of your building (e.g., adding a restaurant tenant with grease exhaust), it can stress your roof system and lead to unexpected issues.

3. What can we do to extend the lifespan of our commercial roofing system?

Maximizing your roof’s lifespan starts with choosing the right system and prioritizing its health. Here are some key considerations:

• Make regular inspections and maintenance a priority. This is the single most effective way to catch problems early and prevent them from becoming major issues.
• Choose a roof system that’s right for your building and its intended use. Don’t prioritize cost over compatibility. For example, a modified bitumen system might require a more significant up-front cost, but the long-term costs are often less because this system offers superior longevity. In the same way, single-ply membranes are a more cost-effective solution that can last 20+ years, but maintenance costs will be higher, especially toward the end of the roof’s life cycle.
• Minimize penetrations and foot traffic on your roof. Every hole is a potential entry point for water and wear. Additionally, keep unnecessary foot traffic off your roof. Every step increases the risk of damage, especially on single-ply membranes.
• Repair any problems promptly. Don’t let small leaks or tears turn into major headaches.

4. What should we do if we think it might be time to replace our roof in the next 2-3 years?

If you suspect your roof may need replacing within the next 2-3 years, proactive planning is key. Here’s what you should do:

• Consult with a qualified roofing professional who can help you make key decisions. Choosing a qualified roofing contractor that you know and trust is an important business decision. They can assess your roof’s condition and recommend the best replacement options.
• Develop a budget. The next step in preparing for a roof replacement is to develop a budget. It’s important to be proactive rather than reactive. 
• Plan ahead for logistical issues. Logistical obstacles and unexpected setbacks can make a significant difference in a successful project. For example, if you manage a manufacturing plant, you’ll want to consider how a reroofing project will affect your day-to-day operations: Will the plant need to shut down for the duration of the project?  Or will the roofing contractor need to plan to work specific hours to avoid a shutdown? Making important decisions like these before you get started can help your commercial roofing contractor develop an appropriate scope of work and mitigate the possibility of running into any issues when it’s time to start your re-roofing project. 

Protect Your Investment with Maxwell Roofing

Your commercial roof plays a vital role in your business success. Don’t let its lifespan be a guessing game. By understanding the factors affecting its longevity and implementing proactive measures, you can ensure your roof continues to faithfully protect your investments for years to come. If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Maxwell Roofing. 

We also encourage you to check these additional resources:

• Commercial Roofing FAQs
• Maxwell Roofing Project Spotlights & Client Testimonials 

Roof construction is a team effort that requires a wide array of people with different skill sets. In this blog, we will highlight a few of the roles in a quality roofing team and explain how to get commercial roofing jobs.

1. Roofer

Commercial roofers are the people actually performing the day-to-day tasks such as tearing off the existing roof, and installing new insulation and membrane. Roofers spend most of their days outside building commercial roofs while maintaining a safe work environment. Though some construction experience is helpful for a roofing tech job, many roofers can also be trained on the job. If you are hoping to take on a larger role in the company, great news! There is plenty of room for a roofer to rise in the ranks of a roofing company by taking on supervisory roles in the future. 

2. Foreman

The next position up the ladder from a roofer is the construction foreman. Foremen manage a job site by setting the schedule and making sure everything runs smoothly on a day-to-day basis. Experience in the roofing industry is a must for foremen, as they need to understand all components of the job. However, people skills are vital, too: foremen are also required to be effective leaders to train and manage their crew.

3. Superintendent

The superintendent is responsible for multiple projects at once. They ensure the foreman follows the daily work plan in place and manages their assigned crews. This position ensures that a project moves in the proper direction safely and profitably. Superintendents ensure that work is done on schedule, within budget, and with the quality and workmanship expected by industry standards. The superintendent meets daily with project leads to discuss project requirements, safety hazards, and resource requirements. 

4. Construction Manager

The construction manager is responsible for the leadership, safety, direction, and profitability of the Construction department.  This includes strategic planning and finishing the job on time and within budget.

Construction managers oversee multiple job sites, managing the big picture of a job. They work with a team of people working on job sites to handle any problems that might come up. Construction managers may have experience in construction or business.

Thinking About Making a Career Change?

Check out Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal’s career page to see the exciting opportunities available in commercial roofing. 

As the year draws to a close and we’re sealing up another chapter, we also recognize the value of doing one final inspection. That’s why we’re looking back at some of the most popular insights and articles that defined our journey through 2023. From navigating the most common commercial roofing questions to offering seasonal tips and best practices, we’ve covered a wide range of topics to help you keep your roof in top condition.

At Maxwell Roofing, we’re more than just your go-to commercial roof repair and maintenance experts; we care about going above and beyond for our customers. This means approaching each project with collaboration and a commitment to doing whatever we can to help make your job easier. This blog post is our curated collection of top-notch roofing insights and articles that resonated most with the needs of property owners and building managers throughout the year.

To help you find what you’re looking for, we’ve broken them down into different categories based on your specific challenges, concerns, and goals.

Commercial Reroofing FAQs

When is it Time to Replace Your Commercial Roof?

Wondering if your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan? This post dives into the telltale signs that it’s time for a replacement, helping you avoid costly surprises and ensure your building’s protection. Learn more about aging roofs, common damage indicators, and the importance of scheduling regular inspections.

Should I Replace or Repair my Commercial Roof?

This blog post breaks down the pros and cons of each option, considering factors like budget, roof condition, and long-term value. Discover which approach best suits your specific needs to ensure you have the right roof for your building.

What Should I Know Before Starting a Reroofing Project on a Commercial Building?

Before embarking on a major investment like a commercial reroofing project, preparation is key. This post delves into the crucial aspects you should understand and communicate to your contractor.

What Should I Look for in a Commercial Reroofing Quote?

Understanding a commercial roofing quote can be daunting. This guide helps you decipher the key elements of a quote, including material costs, labor, and timeline.

Seasonal Challenges and Roofing Maintenance

Common Signs of Wind or Hail Damage on Your Commercial Roof

After a storm, ensure your roof isn’t hiding any damage. Learn about the telltale signs of wind and hail damage, including missing shingles, dents, and granular loss. This post will help you discover how to inspect your roof safely and when to call in a professional.

How to Assess and Address Storm Damage on Your Roof

Suspect your roof suffered storm damage? This guide provides a clear roadmap for assessing the situation. It will also help you learn how to identify different types of damage, document the findings, and take appropriate action.

Spring Cleaning Checklist for Your Commercial Roof

While inspecting and cleaning your roof throughout the year is essential, spring is one of the more popular times to give your commercial roof a fresh look. This checklist outlines essential maintenance tasks including cleaning debris, inspecting for leaks, and checking drainage systems.

Working at Maxwell Roofing

What Does a Career in Commercial Roofing Look Like?

Have you ever considered a career in commercial roofing? A stable career path with room for advancement, commercial roofing could be the perfect fit for you. The post will help you uncover the secrets of this rewarding industry and learn how to start your journey.

A Day in the Life of a Commercial Service Technician

Step into the shoes of one of our service technicians and experience a typical day filled with challenges and rewards. From inspecting roofs and identifying potential problems to repairing leaks and ensuring optimal performance, our team’s expertise keeps buildings protected and businesses thriving. This post allows you to take a peek at the daily routine and discover what makes this role so vital.

An Inside Look at Maxwell Roofing’s Culture

At Maxwell Roofing, we’re more than just colleagues—we’re a family. Fostering a positive and supportive work environment is central to our success. Explore the core values that define our culture, or read firsthand experiences from our team members, and discover why Maxwell Roofing could be the perfect place to build your career.

Building Relationships Through Expert Commercial Roofing Service and Maintenance

At Maxwell Roofing, we strive to be your trusted partner in roofing. By offering comprehensive services, employing experienced professionals, and prioritizing exceptional customer service, we aim to exceed your expectations and ensure your roof provides optimal protection for years to come.

Whether you’re facing a minor leak or planning a complete roof replacement, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how Maxwell Roofing can become your trusted partner for all your commercial roofing service and maintenance needs.

So you’ve found the perfect commercial building for your business. It’s in the right location, and the price is within your budget. Congratulations! But before you break out the champagne, take a moment to assess the building. An inspection can help give you a general overview of the health and the age of the building. While assessing the HVAC, construction, water, and sewer lines are all important steps, you’ll want to pay special attention to the condition of the building’s roof.

An aging roof in disrepair can be one of the most expensive building components to replace or remediate. With a price tag in the tens of thousands, a roof that needs replacement can quickly turn your commercial investment property into a serious financial liability. To prevent that scenario, we’ve put together key questions to ask about the roof condition before you purchase a commercial building. Run through this checklist before you sign the paperwork on your new commercial building.

1. When was the roof built?

If you’re considering purchasing a building, you likely know the year that it was first constructed, but your roof may be newer than the building itself. Be sure to establish a clear timeline so you know when a new roof was put on a building and exactly which materials were replaced.

Sometimes commercial building owners re-roof a commercial building, replacing only the outer materials of the roof membrane and leaving the existing roof deck intact. Knowing the age of both the roof deck and the membrane is critical to understanding the true age of the roof. No commercial roof lasts forever, but knowing when it may need to be replaced could factor into your budget.

2. What material is the roof made of?

While many flat roofs look the same to the untrained eye, the materials used to construct a roof can enormously affect its durability. Knowing the material of a commercial building’s roof can help calculate future maintenance costs and a replacement timeline.

3. When was the last inspection?

Not every roofing problem manifests as an obvious leak. Commercial roofs can have many hidden problems that are only revealed during an inspection by a qualified roofing professional. If the seller has the building’s roof maintained regularly, they should have maintenance reports they can share with potential buyers. They may also have a complete history of inspections and service visits in recent years.

4. How has the roof been maintained?

Commercial roofs need regular inspections and maintenance in order to last for their full expected lifespan. Ask the building seller if they have a roofing maintenance schedule and how often they get routine roof repairs. If the seller can’t produce a maintenance schedule, you may need a more detailed inspection to determine the condition of the roof prior to purchasing.

5. Are there any existing warranties? If so, what are the conditions?

Most roofing materials come with a manufacturer warning in case they fail. In most cases, these warranties have specific conditions that can void the terms of the warranty if they are not followed. Before purchasing a commercial property, you should know which warranties exist and learn how to avoid breaking any warranty terms. A qualified roofing partner can help manage your warranties and ensure that they are properly fulfilled in the event of a roofing failure.

If you are considering purchasing a commercial property and want to know what roofing questions to ask, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal today. Our team of inspectors would be happy to help.

Commercial roofing is a delicate process that requires specialists on the job, and this is especially true for work on historic buildings. Historic buildings present particular challenges when they need repairs.

Due to age, roofing for historic buildings may have structural issues or damage. Proper historic roof restoration also requires that the roofers do everything they can to maintain the original architectural style of the building. There is no one-size-fits-all roof system for a historic building. Repairing, re-roofing, or reconstructing a historic building will require the advice of a qualified roofing professional who has extensive experience in buildings from a variety of different architectural eras.

When you’re ready to invest in roofing repairs for your historic building, take the following steps to ensure the strength and integrity of your building’s roof.

1. Get an initial inspection.

The goal of any historic roof restoration is to preserve as much of the original roof as possible while repairing issues and reinforcing the roof. An inspection from a qualified roofer will help determine whether you need a repair or a replacement. A thorough inspection will also identify the material of the existing roof and the level of damage or deterioration the roof has seen over the years.

2. Identify your preservation goals.

When preserving a historic roof, it may not be possible to fully adhere to the design or materials used in the original construction. Building owners should identify the most essential visual elements of the building to preserve during a re-roofing. We’ll be able to guide you through. For one of our clients, a historic bank on Jefferson St. in Huntsville, AL, Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal was able to install a fully adhered roofing system onto the roof deck. This preserved the building’s interior while minimizing changes to the outdoor appearance of the building. Similarly, our work with The Woman’s Club of Nashville helped the philanthropic organization repair the Haley Hall building that is used for events and fundraising.

3. Re-use materials when possible.

Some historic buildings may be constructed of original materials such as clay tiles, slate shingles, and artisan woodwork. Depending on the roofing issue, your roofer may be able to use some of these original materials to echo the historical era of the building. A fabrication shop may also be able to recreate the architectural features of a historic roof.

4. Update where possible.

Preserving a historic building means that you can take advantage of some of the newest roofing technology. It’s a great opportunity to replace elements of the roof with more updated material that aesthetically mimics the original construction.

If you’re ready to learn more about how to protect your historic building’s roof, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal today. Our experienced team of roofers has preservation specialists on hand to guide you through the process of repairing your unique roof.

Whether you’re starting a new relationship with a commercial roofing company or relying on an existing partnership to maintain your roof, there are a few important things that you should always tell your commercial roofer. 

In this blog, Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal will review five pieces of information that property managers or building owners should always track in order to facilitate commercial roofing repairs. 

1. The Amount, Frequency, and Location of Leaks

While many leaks will be obvious to anyone inside a commercial building, sometimes small leaks can go unnoticed. Facility managers should be aware of any strange odors that might indicate mold. Also, keep an eye out for discoloration on the walls of a building’s interior. These subtle changes can indicate potential water infiltration. Even small leaks will require an immediate commercial roof repair, and a roofer should be notified of the problem immediately.

2. Storm Damage 

Storms and other adverse weather events can have a major impact on a roof’s condition and longevity. Immediately following a storm, property managers should always examine their commercial roof and clear any debris that may have collected on the surface. Storms can cause damage to the roof membrane, roof penetrations, or even underlying roofing materials. Following the weather event, building owners should contact their commercial roofer to determine whether it’s necessary for a professional inspection or a repair.

3. Moisture

Moisture is the biggest driver of commercial roof deterioration and damage. If water infiltrates the insulation or a roof deck, the entire roof may need to be replaced. A commercial roofing professional can typically determine the source of the moisture and if the problem is a quick repair or a more widespread issue.

4. Warranty Issues

Commercial roof systems are made up of many different components, many of which have their own warranty terms. These warranties can be tough to track and usually have very strict time limits. If a specific roofing component is damaged or not functioning properly, informing the manufacturer as quickly as possible will increase your chances of recovery under the manufacturer’s warranty.

5. Plans for Regular Maintenance 

Commercial roofers aren’t just for emergency repairs! Building owners should also set up scheduled routine maintenance before problems emerge. When starting a relationship with a new roofer, it’s important to explain your needs and expectations for routine maintenance tell your commercial roofer . If you don’t have a maintenance plan, your roofer can help you create one based on your budget and your needs.

If you’re ready to get started with a new commercial roofer, our team at Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal is here to help with everything from emergency roofing repairs to regular maintenance. Contact us today to learn more.

Industrial buildings must withstand tough conditions and remain functional for round-the-clock work. There is often a lot going on in industrial buildings, and facility managers don’t always have the time to keep track of their building’s roof as well as they should. The Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. team understands the demands put on industrial facility managers, and we’ve designed our maintenance and construction programs with those needs in mind. Here are just a few reasons why industrial building owners are turning to Maxwell to take care of their roofs.

Maxwell inspectors uncover the unexpected.

Roofing problems are not always apparent to people working inside the building. With a roofing inspection from a Maxwell technician, industrial owners get to take advantage of the trained eye of a qualified roofer. Our inspectors are equipped with the best tools and years of experience in order to find problems before they become large enough for the untrained eye to notice. 

Maxwell can help building owners keep up with maintenance. 

Proactive maintenance is the most important thing a building owner can do to protect their roof and their building. While this seems simple, tracking a roof’s maintenance needs requires expertise, persistence, and time. With regular inspections from Maxwell or the use of our roof management program, MAXCare, building owners gain the peace of mind that their roofs are being managed and taken care of without having to track it themselves. 

Maxwell can help get your roof back on track.

Not every industrial building is in great shape when Maxwell gets involved. Buildings that have been unoccupied or that have not been maintained well are likely to have sustained unnoticed damage. Because industrial buildings are designed for heavy use, problems can arise when systems go unused for long periods of time. No matter your building’s situation, Maxwell can help industrial owners ensure that their building remains safe and that their roof investment is protected. 

MAXCare helps industrial owners save money.

Small damage left unattended can become major problems down the line. Preventing this cycle of building damage is what Maxwell does best. Our MAXCare program helps building owners with early detection of roofing problems so they can save costs and stave off any major expenses involved in a roof replacement. 

If you’re ready to learn how Maxwell can help your business, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

Even the most durable industrial roof will experience maintenance and repair issues over the course of its life. These roofs are exposed every day to the weather outside and to the daily grind of industrial work inside, and it’s important to give your roof the special care it needs to function properly. Here we will lay out some of the most common issues with industrial roofs that occur, along with some simple suggestions for how to deal with them.

1. Problems with Roof Penetrations

Skylights, vents, and other roof features require penetrations through the roof membrane and decking. Penetrations, particularly skylights, are prone to cracks and leaks. The more penetrations a roof has, the more opportunities there are for a roof to spring a leak.

2. Thermal Movement

Over time, all roofs expand and contract as the temperature shifts. This is known as thermal movement, where the roof expands during hot weather events and then quickly contracts when it’s cold. Roofers should account for thermal movement during construction, using well-placed supports to prevent the roof from shifting or exposing delicate parts of the roof system. Roofers should look out for signs of thermal movement during their regular maintenance routines. 

3. Weather Issues

Bad weather is beyond the control of a facility manager, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t prepare for it. Extreme temperatures, heavy rain, snow, ice, or high wind can all cause serious damage to a roof. Regular maintenance and a quick response to emergency repairs can help prevent the most extensive weather damage.

4. Equipment Damage

Many industrial buildings house equipment like HVACs on their roof surface. If this equipment malfunctions, it can easily cause damage to the roof. If equipment is not properly secured to a roof, it can lift during heavy winds. HVACs, in particular, can cause water infiltration if they malfunction. To prevent equipment damage, it’s important to have an HVAC contractor regularly examine the equipment. A roofer should then inspect the surrounding roof to make sure there hasn’t been any damage.

5. Human Error 

Industrial roofs often get a lot of foot traffic. Technicians and other workers may often need to climb on a roof to service equipment or perform some other type of task. Having more people on a roof can introduce many problems. Make sure that roofs are properly reinforced in areas where people will be walking, and always have a roofer inspect high-traffic areas for accidental damage.

We Can Help You Protect Your Industrial Roof

If you’re ready to learn more about how you can protect your industrial roof, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

Managing properties involves juggling many different problems and maintenance issues all at once. The more property managers can get taken off their plates, the more time they have to focus on other important things. With Maxwell’s MAXCare, property managers can utilize a professional roofing company to provide asset management for their commercial and industrial properties. MAXCare can help with everything from scheduling to budgeting. Here’s how:

Hassle-Free Scheduling with Maxwell

When you’re managing tenants, repairs, and other maintenance, it can be difficult to keep track of roofing inspections and routine repairs. With MAXCare, Maxwell will track the status of every single roof a property management company maintains. You’ll get quick reminders about inspections and we’ll let you know when to expect routine repairs. 

An Easy-To-Use Dashboard

MAXCare tracks everything about a client’s different properties in one simple online dashboard. The MAXCare dashboard is a web-based program that is available from anywhere with an internet connection. With just a simple glance, property managers can get all the information they need about their property’s roofs. 

Best in Industry Reporting

Instead of spending hours pulling together expense reports for investors, MAXCare clients can access ready-made reports on all of their maintenance expenses. The reporting tracked by MAXCare is considered the best in the industry.

If you’re ready to learn more about how Maxwell can save you time, contact us today. Our team is here and ready to help. 

There’s no doubt that property managers must wear many different hats in their jobs, from dealing with clients or tenants, managing business functions and—on top of everything else—making sure that their buildings function properly. All of these different functions can become too much for one person to keep track of, especially for companies with multiple properties. 

When property managers get into a position with too much work on their plates, they often find themselves reacting to a crisis rather than proactively managing it. This can leave property managers in a position where they are constantly playing catch up, putting out “fires” instead of preventing them in the first place. 

So, when it comes to roof maintenance, here are three easy ways that property managers can lighten their loads.

1. Schedule regular inspections and preventative maintenance.

Roofing problems can create more work for property managers who may have to deal with damages or displaced clients. Instead of waiting for a roofing disaster to prompt a repair, property managers can pre-schedule regular roofing inspections and maintenance. Scheduling maintenance allows property managers to better manage their time and to stave off major roofing problems.  

2. Sign up for a roof management program. 

Roof management programs allow property managers to hand off most of the routine work needed for a commercial roof. These programs help manage warranty issues and create maintenance plans so that property managers can focus on other elements of their jobs. 

For companies with multiple properties, roof management plans like Maxwell’s MAXCare® also provide an easy online portal where property managers can easily access information about their roof for reporting to investors or clients. MAXCare® clients also get access to budget forecasting projections and roofing education tools to help plan ahead for whatever issues may arise.   

3. Consider a roof monitoring program.

Many property managers lack the time and technical skills to regularly inspect their roofs for problems. Monitoring programs like Maxwell Monitors gives property managers the chance to use trained roofers as their eyes on each of their buildings. Maxwell Monitors is great for property managers who need to keep tabs on unoccupied buildings or who lack the staff to regularly check in on each of their roofs. 

Programs like Maxwell Monitors are also flexible to meet the needs of the property managers using them. The monitoring program can be scaled to accommodate everything from basic needs, such as designing a checklist for a non-roofer to check in on a building all the way up to a full-service monitoring and maintenance program.  

If you’re ready to get started, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today! Our team is experienced and ready to help.

Making resolutions for a new year has been shown to improve personal performance and to help people more effectively reach their goals. With all the 2020 offerings from Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc., businesses can also make a resolution this year: to improve their roof performance with new commercial roofing.

Here are just a few ways that a new commercial roof can help your business in 2020: 

Better Energy Efficiency—Energy-efficient materials have come a long way during the last decade. Commercial roof new construction allows building owners to install top-of-the-line insulation or other materials to help reduce energy costs. A new commercial roof can also be equipped for hardware like solar panels.

Improved Weatherproofing—New commercial roofs are better at resisting weather like rain and snowstorms. Old roofs may not hold up against hail or strong winds. Aging materials may not be up to the job of securing equipment on the roof, and outdated roof membranes and other roofing materials may start to lose their waterproofing qualities.

A New Look—A change in roof design can completely change the look of a building. Altering the roof pitch or material can give a business a whole new style, while also improving performance. Additionally, the design of a roof can help with everything from weatherproofing to energy efficiency.

Preventing Leaks—Leaks are the biggest concern when it comes to a commercial roof. Not only can a leak damage a roof, but it can also create problems in other parts of a building. With a new commercial roof, your business can get the best leak protection. If a new roof isn’t in the budget for 2020, your business can still improve leak performance by fixing penetrations and other problem areas on a roof. It’s not just the roof itself that protects against leaks but also all roof accessories.

Starting Strong with a Maintenance Plan—No matter how good a new commercial roof is, without a regular maintenance plan, it won’t make it to its expected replacement date. Commercial roofs are complicated systems and need regular inspections and repairs. Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. offers a no-hassle maintenance plan called MAXCare®. With MAXCare, companies can easily schedule inspections and plan for upcoming repairs. Going into 2020 with MAXCare will ensure that your company’s roof performance greatly improves. 

To learn more about how a new commercial roof can set your business up for success in 2020, contact Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. today.

As a commercial business owner, you’re committed to the upkeep and maintenance of your building and building systems. You schedule yearly HVAC inspections, keep a close watch on energy use, take out any necessary insurance policies, and fix any problems as soon as they arise. Once problems have been identified, though, it’s up to you to locate and employ a conscientious contractor to address problems quickly and effectively. With so many options to choose from, you can quickly feel overwhelmed by the process of selecting a company or individual to service your building. This can be especially true when it comes to commercial roofing. A properly installed and maintained roof can save you thousands of dollars in energy savings and prevent major costs from water ingress and mold growth.

You’re also concerned about the bottom line. In an effort to save money, some folks hire contractors or professionals who may not be fully qualified for the task they’re about to complete. Roofing installation or replacement can be a huge investment. That’s why it’s essential that the company you work with is highly qualified to complete the job. When you’re interviewing potential partners, here are a few qualifications you should look for.

Safety Must Be a Priority

In terms of safety in building and construction, roofing is one of the most dangerous. It’s a fact: roofers are more at risk for onsite injuries or fatalities than other construction workers. In fact, according to OSHA, 34 percent of construction-site fatalities were roofing-related. This means that you should contract with a company that ensures the safety of its workers through airtight safety protocols and insurance policies. Maxwell conducts a job hazard analysis for every project, taking time to identify potential dangers and formulate a plan for preventing falls or injuries. We also employ the most advanced safety equipment possible to make sure our workers and supervisors are fully protected. Don’t engage with a company that doesn’t take time to customize its safety approach to your construction site. It’s simply not worth the risk.

Roofing Professionals Must Be Licensed, Bonded, and Insured

In efforts to cut costs, some roofing companies are not licensed, bonded, and insured. You may be considering working with an unlicensed roofing contractor because you feel it can save you money on a large, expensive project. This is a choice which can come at a huge cost to you, the customer, in the long run. First, let’s run through the meaning of these three commonly-used terms. A licensed roofer has undergone training, testing, and the legal certification necessary to work in a particular state or region. This means they’ve also been trained to address specific issues that may arise in particular areas. They’re aware of all local, state, and national building codes and can make sure the work they do adheres to all building regulations. This eliminates the chances of you being fined for work that is not up to code. A bonded and insured roofer has a full-coverage insurance policy that protects workers in the case of injury. With an insured and bonded contractor, you can’t be held liable for any injury that occurs on your property. For all these reasons, these three words are non-negotiable when it comes to selecting your roofing partner.

Establishing a Maintenance Relationship

When you’re looking to engage with a roofing contractor, you want to establish a relationship with a company you can trust. Look for a company that schedules yearly or bi-annual inspections to keep tabs on any necessary repairs from weather or exposure. You also want to work with a company that doesn’t suggest extraneous repairs. If an inspector finds an issue at every single checkup, it may be time to consider a new contractor. As in every relationship, the key factor is that you’re certain the professionals you’ve hired will bring a high level of efficacy to their work. With so much to manage in a commercial building, it’s important to have reliable, experienced partners to handle all aspects of building management. Since roofing can be one of the most expensive investments you make in a building, you must engage with someone you trust.

Trusted and Experienced Professionals

Any company is only as good as the talent they hire. Maxwell Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc. has established a reputation for excellence by consistently hiring experienced roofing professionals who are licensed, bonded, and ensured. We maintain a strong workforce by offering an outstanding benefits package. We know that if we treat our employees right, they’ll treat your roof right. If you’re a professional roofer or an experienced supervisor looking for a dedicated, caring company, we’d love to determine if you’re a fit. For more information on how we bring the best in roofing installation and maintenance to our clients, contact us today.